Ahoi Ashtami Vrat Katha

In ancient times, a moneylender had seven sons and seven daughters-in-law. Before Diwali, all the wives went to the forest to bring clay for plastering their homes. The eldest daughter-in-law was digging earth where a porcupine (syahu) had its burrow. While digging, her trowel accidentally injured and killed one of the porcupine\'s babies. The mother porcupine cursed in anger that whoever killed her child would never bear living children. The eldest wife, frightened, blamed the youngest daughter-in-law instead. After that, the youngest wife\'s children would die immediately after birth. This happened seven times and she was consumed with grief. The youngest wife sought counsel from an elderly woman who advised her to worship the Syahu Mata on Ahoi Ashtami and seek forgiveness with a sincere heart. The youngest wife observed the Ahoi Mata vrat with proper rituals and begged the porcupine mother for forgiveness. Seeing her genuine devotion, the Syahu Mata was pleased and withdrew her curse. Afterward, the youngest wife was blessed with seven healthy sons. Since then, mothers observe the Ahoi Ashtami fast for the protection and welfare of their children.

Observe the fast on Kartik Krishna Ashtami. Draw the image of Ahoi Mata on the wall. In the evening when stars appear, worship Ahoi Mata and listen to the katha. Break the fast after the puja.

Ahoi Ashtami is observed by mothers for the long life, health, and safety of their children. It symbolizes the love and sacrifice of motherhood.